PCWG Metrics & Diagnostics

PCWG Metrics

last updated: June 2013

What do we do currently?

The PCWG uses three types of evaluation methods:
a. Compare a single number, seasonal cycle, or time series in the model and available observations/reanalysis using a CESM component model diagnostics package.
b. Qualitatively compare a spatial map in the model and available observations/reanalysis using a CESM component model diagnostics package (mostly PCWG, AMWG polar set)
c. Expert judgment informed by custom plots and evaluation.

Proposed new target "metrics" -­‐ easy to implement/high-­‐priority:1) Single numbers (mean bias, rms) for annual mean and seasonal cycle of area and extent compared to observations. Add as a table to the sea ice diagnostics package. 2) More quantitative comparisons of sea ice thickness/volume. Pattern correlations?

Proposed new target "metrics" -­‐ medium ease to implement/medium-­‐priority:
1) Sea ice velocity. Observations available from Pathfinder dataset.
2) Fram Strait Ice Area Transport/Export -­‐ Example of an "integrative metric" that is relatively well observed. Observations available from ?.
3) Ice age/area of first year ice. Compare to Maslanik observations.
4) Ice albedo. Observations available from ?
5) Combine several metrics into Taylor diagram.